Tomatillos grow vigorously, branch widely, and attract plenty of pollinators—traits that make thoughtful companion planting especially helpful. After more than 30 years growing vegetables in raised beds in Sonoma Valley, I’ve learned which companions help tomatillos thrive and which ones compete, shade, or interfere with their natural growth pattern.

Below are the companions that consistently improve growth, pollination, and yield—and the neighbors that cause more trouble than they’re worth.

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Why Companion Planting Matters for Tomatillos

Tomatillos are fast-growing, nutrient-hungry plants that appreciate steady pollinator activity and consistent moisture. Good companions help:

Improve pollination
Enhance soil fertility
Deter pests naturally
Maximize space in raised beds
Keep vines upright and manageable

Poor companions can stunt growth, attract pests, or overwhelm tomatillos’ branching habit.

Best Companion Plants for Tomatillos

1. Basil

One of my favorite companions. Basil attracts bees from early summer through fall, and tomatillos rely heavily on pollinators for fruit set. In my Sonoma beds, basil planted at the corners boosts both fragrance and fruit production.

2. Marigolds

Marigolds help deter root-knot nematodes and attract beneficial insects. They also serve as a bright understory around the base of sprawling tomatillo plants.

3. Borage

Borage draws in pollinators nonstop. I’ve noticed that tomatillos growing near borage set fruit more reliably during cooler weeks.

4. Cilantro (Spring and Fall)

Cilantro bolts quickly in warm weather, and its lacy flowers invite hoverflies and parasitic wasps—excellent allies against aphids.

5. Onions and Scallions

These make a great low-growing border. They don’t compete for space or nutrients and help repel soft-bodied pests.

6. Lettuce and Spinach

Shallow-rooted greens tuck neatly at the base of tomatillos and appreciate the light shade cast by their spreading branches. I often plant lettuces around the edges of early-season tomatillo beds.

7. Nasturtium

Acts as a trap crop for aphids and leaf miners while keeping soil cool. Plus, hummingbirds love the flowers.

Companions to Avoid

1. Corn

Corn grows tall, creates too much shade, and competes heavily for nitrogen—leading to reduced tomatillo flowering and smaller fruit.

2. Potatoes

Tomatillos and potatoes share several pest and disease risks, especially flea beetles and early blight. I never plant these close anymore after seeing disease pressure climb in past seasons.

3. Fennel

Fennel exudes allelopathic compounds that can inhibit growth of nearby plants. Tomatillos dislike it as much as tomatoes do.

4. Squash and Pumpkins

Tomatillos already sprawl widely; pairing them with vining cucurbits almost always leads to an overcrowded, tangled bed and lower yields.

5. Cucumbers

While not harmful chemically, cucumbers compete for space, water, and airflow—creating conditions ripe for powdery mildew.

6. Brassicas (Cabbage, Broccoli, Cauliflower)

Brassicas prefer cooler soil and heavy feeding, while tomatillos need warmth and moderate nutrient levels. I’ve found they simply don’t thrive together.